Ekiti Gubernatorial Election: Abati Demands Explanation for APC Chair Acting as INEC Observer

Reuben Abati, a former presidential spokesperson and current anchor on Arise TV, urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to clarify why the Edo State chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Jarret Tenebe, reportedly acted as an observer during the recently finished Ekiti State governorship election.

According to DAILY POST, a viral clip shows Tenebe wearing a vest that is typically worn by INEC observers while he was supposedly accredited to monitor the election.

The incident has sparked controversy, with some Nigerians alleging that the electoral process was biased in favor of the ruling party.

During the Morning Show Program on Tuesday, Abati asked how Tenebe received accreditation to serve as an INEC observer.

He said, “The APC chairman wearing an INEC‑accredited uniform—perhaps for fashion—should not be an observer, as observers are meant to be non‑partisan.”

“Observers should be neutral and unbiased, which is why many are selected from non‑governmental organizations.”

“However, the APC chairman is a partisan figure wearing an INEC uniform, which is the crux of the controversy. INEC owes Nigerians an explanation.”

“How did he receive the uniform? Who accredited him as an observer? Under what circumstances did he become an observer?”